Cherry on Top
Blended cherries and ice take a mint julep to a whole new level.
I am typically not a bourbon drinker, but this bourbon-based cocktail changed my mind about the South’s favorite spirit. It blends bourbon and cherries for a mint-infused slushy that’s reminiscent of a mint julep.
In my opinion, fresh ingredients are what make a drink a true cocktail. Around the office I am known as the plant lady because I love growing all types of plants, succulents and herbs. It was actually a few sprigs of my homegrown mint that inspired me to create this cherry slush cocktail. I believe fresh mint is more than a garnish; it is delicious and aromatic and can be used in all types of cocktails and dishes. In this recipe, the rich sweetness of the cherries works wonders with the cool notes of the fresh mint leaves.
I considered muddling the cherries with the mint and simple syrup, but I wanted to take this cocktail to another level, so I decided to blend them with the ice. You can choose either method, but blending the cherries with ice makes for a delicious slushy-type drink. If you go that route, don’t use too many cherries or the drink will get too watery.
Like my spouse says: Use the best bourbon you can afford. Since bourbon is the main ingredient and you are not adding a fruit juice to cut it, you will be able to taste the difference. The better the bourbon, the smoother the cocktail. Lower quality bourbon will be harsher on the tongue.
I hope you can enjoy a fall sunset on the porch with one (or two) of these tasty beverages. Cheers!
| Servings |
drinks
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- 20 mint leaves
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- 1 cup cherries washed and pitted
- 1 1/2 cups ice
- 4 ounces bourbon
- additional mint leaves and cherries for garnish
Ingredients
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- Divide the mint and simple syrup into each cup. Muddle each cup until you can smell the aroma of the mint, approximately 1 to 2 minutes. If you don’t have a muddler, you can use the back of a long wooden spoon.
- Place the cherries and ice in a blender and blend until crushed, but leave some larger pieces.
- Pour some of the cherry slush into each cup (on top of the muddled mint and syrup), filling it up about three-quarters of the way.
- Divide the bourbon and pour over the cherry slush.
- Add more slush on top, and garnish with a few cherries along with some mint leaves.
- Make this cocktail 100% homemade by making your own simple syrup; it’s super easy and cost effective. Here’s how: Place 1 cup of white sugar and 1 cup of water in a sauce pan over medium heat until the sugar melts. Let it simmer for 5 minutes before you remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool and store it in an air-tight bottle. Simple syrup can last for months in your liquor cabinet.
